Understanding Age Limits for NEET UG 2026: Pursuing MBBS at Any Age

The NEET UG 2026 examination is a crucial gateway for aspiring medical students in India. This article explores the age limits for applicants, revealing that there is no maximum age restriction for pursuing an MBBS degree. Candidates aged 30 to 70 can now apply, and they can attempt the exam an unlimited number of times. This significant change opens new opportunities for many individuals who wish to fulfill their dream of becoming doctors, regardless of their age. Read on to learn more about the implications of these changes and how they affect aspiring medical professionals.

By Ambika Singh Dec 20, 2025, 12:49 IST

NEET UG 2026 Overview

NEET UG 2026: In India, the pursuit of an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) degree is a highly sought-after ambition. Research indicates that approximately 70% of children in the nation aspire to become doctors. However, many individuals, including young adults and professionals, find that their dream of entering the medical field did not come to fruition during their formative years. This raises the question: is it feasible to pursue an MBBS degree at the age of 60 or beyond? Can working professionals embark on this journey?

This article will investigate the age restrictions for candidates wishing to apply for NEET UG, as well as the regulations surrounding age for admission into MBBS and other medical programs.

Significance of NEET UG for Medical Admissions

Medical Admissions through NEET UG
Before delving into the specifics of age limits for MBBS and related medical courses, it is crucial to understand the role of NEET UG. This examination serves as the sole entry point for medical admissions in India. The National Testing Agency (NTA) organizes NEET UG annually, and the scores obtained are used by medical colleges nationwide to grant admissions to MBBS and other medical programs. In essence, performing well in NEET UG is a prerequisite for anyone wishing to study MBBS in India.

Age Limits for NEET UG Applicants

What is the age limit for students applying for NEET UG?
Minimum Age Limit: The minimum age requirement for NEET UG is set at 17 years. Candidates who have completed their educational qualifications and are at least 17 years old are eligible to apply. The age is determined as of December 30th.

Maximum Age Limit: In the past, only candidates aged 25 and under could apply for NEET UG. However, a significant update from the National Medical Commission (NMC) in 2022 removed this upper age limit. As a result, individuals aged 30 to 70 years can now apply for NEET UG, allowing them to pursue their MBBS aspirations.

Attempt Limits for NEET UG

How many times can one appear for NEET UG?
With the removal of the upper age limit, candidates of any age can now apply for NEET UG. The next question is: how many attempts are allowed? The answer is that candidates can take the NEET UG exam an unlimited number of times. Previously, there were restrictions on attempts due to the age limit, but in 2018, the NTA revised these rules, allowing candidates to appear for the exam as many times as they wish.

Conclusion

In summary, the NEET UG examination has become more accessible, enabling individuals of various ages to pursue their dreams of becoming doctors. This change opens doors for many who may have thought their opportunity had passed.